Class of 2006

Rich Morse began his wrestling career in 1959 at Lowville Academy. While competing for the Raiders, he won three varsity letters and two Ontario League Championships. He continued his wrestling career at Ithaca College, where he lettered as a three-year member of the Bombers varsity team.

Rich began his coaching career in 1966, spending ten years at Cazenovia High School and two years at Fabius-Pompey. His Cazenovia squads won three Tri-Valley league titles. His Cazenovia teams won two Central New York league titles and numerous Invitational and Holiday tournaments. While at Cazenovia, he was twice named Tri-Valley League Coach of the Year. Rich laced up his wrestling shoes one more time to coach at Fabius-Pompey High School from 1983-1985. In his twelve year coaching career, Rich's overall record was 114 wins and 45 losses. In an era when only twelve to fourteen dual meets were allowed, his teams averaged almost ten wins a season.

Rich was also a top flight wrestling official, refereeing numerous Section III Class and Final Tournaments. He served in several capacities for the Syracuse Wrestling Officials Association, from contract negotiator to Head of Officials Training and finally, as it's President from 1980 to 1982.

Rich and his wife of 35 years, Kathy, are the proud parents of three married daughters, Heidi (John), Kelly (Geoff), and Kim (Mike) and have three healthy, happy, grandchildren.


Sadly, Rich passed away on May 19, 2008 after battling heart problems for years.